Description

Students will be introduced to the concept of energy in its different formsthrough a range of lectures and demonstrations. These demonstrations willalso introduce the concepts of energy storage, energy efficiency, energyconversion and sustainability. An overview is given of issues surroundingsustainable energy for future generations. The status and impact of presentday sources of energy are covered, including the sustainability of fossilfuel reserves and the impact of pollution and greenhouse gas emissions onthe environment. Energy efficiency, as an important way to conserve ournatural fuel reserves and reduce environmental and financial costs, iscovered. Building design, appliance efficiency and other issues related tothe smart and efficient use of energy are covered. Trends in the renewableenergy industry are considered. An overview is given of renewable energysources, their harnessing and their conversion into electricity via varioustechnologies. In particular, an overview is given of solar cells and theirapplications with emphasis on visual presentations and interesting casehistories, including some fascinating mistakes and disasters. Students willalso explore the design and fabrication of silicon solar cells while workingas engineers on the "Virtual Solar Cell Production Line". Occasionallectures will be given by guest lecturers.